Virtual Reality: A Step Forward In Diagnosing Schizophrenia

Abstract

Diagnosing a heterogeneous disorder like schizophrenia is still based on patients’ report of their subjective experiences. Recently, the utilization of innovative, computer-based technologies such as virtual reality (VR) to objectify these experiences has gained experts’ attention. VR provides a multidimensional, interactive environment, in which the formation of paranoid thoughts in different settings, as well as patients’ reaction to virtual characters, can be assessed. VR also offers a milieu to evaluate other aspects of the disorder such as cognitive deficits and negative symptoms. Trying to objectify the diagnosis not only can help specialists to have a more goal-directed management approach but also benefits patients with receiving better care. Herein, we briefly report the new advances of applying VR in the evaluation and diagnosis of schizophrenia, a novel approach that in turn can accelerate the rehabilitation and the treatment of the disorder.